England coach Sven Goran Eriksson has admitted that it is unlikely that Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe will make the final 22 for the EURO 2004 finals.
Defoe impressed when he came on as a substitute during England’s 1-0 defeat to Sweden on Wednesday, but with several strikers competiting for just four places, the former West Ham forward is likely to miss out.
“Defoe is one for the future. He did very well in Gothenburg and technically he is good and very quick – and he always looks where the goal is, which is very important,” Eriksson said.
“But in my mind, I will take four strikers – two for each forward position.”
Emile Heskey, who has been enduring a miserable season for Liverpool, received a welcome vote of confidence from Eriksson.
“Heskey is always useful because he is so strong,” Eriksson added.
“He hasn’t scored many for England but he has been important in many games.”
Meanwhile, Eriksson took the opportunity to praise the contribution of Chelsea defender John Terry.
“Terry is a young Tony Adams – that is exactly right. He has the spirit, he is strong, and is not slow,” said the Swede.
“He is not the quickest in the world but he is very difficult to beat.
“Against Thierry Henry, you have to be a little bit careful but the good thing is that the players know Henry.
“They play against him at least twice a year and see him on TV every week.
“Sol plays against him every day and John will have played him four times by the end of next week.”
